Quirk brought aboard as bullpen coach

New Astros skipper Mills praises new hire's experience

The team on Wednesday announced Jamie Quirk will be the bullpen coach for recently hired manager Brad Mills.

Quirk, 55, is a former player and big league coach. In 2009, he was a scout for the Reds.

From 2003-08, Quirk was the Rockies bench coach.

"Jamie has a wealth of experience and comes highly recommended," Astros general manager Ed Wade said. "He had a long playing career and spent 15 seasons as a Major League coach. He's another solid addition to our staff."

Quirk's coach experience includes stops with the Royals, Rangers and Rockies.

"I'm excited to add such an experienced and knowledgeable coach like Jamie," Mills said. "He'll bring a lot to our club. Overall, I feel we have an outstanding big league coaching staff."

A first-round pick by the Royals in the 1972 First-Year Player Draft, Quirk played in the big leagues from 1975-92.

Joe Frisaro is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.